OSLO – Today, an important Strategic Partnership Agreement was signed by Heikki Holmås, Norway’s Minister for International Development, and Ertharin Cousin, the Executive Director of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP).

With a pledge of NOK 980 million (US$168 million), the Strategic Partnership Agreement ensures predictable funding to WFP for humanitarian and resilience building activities through 2015.

“As WFP is entirely dependent on voluntary funds, we are especially grateful for Norway’s reliable and flexible funding. Model humanitarian donors like Norway help us provide humanitarian assistance quickly – for example to people in the Sahel and Horn of Africa – and support the recovery of communities facing recurring crises,” said Ertharin Cousin.

The partnership will improve WFP’s response, as well as build on disaster risk reduction, emergency preparedness and nutrition.

During her two-day visit to Oslo, Cousin will meet H.R.H. Crown Prince Haakon of Norway, Minister for Foreign Affairs Jonas Gahr Støre, and Minister for International Development Heikki Holmås, as well as representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Parliament.

“Norway is a valued partner for WFP, contributing each year to operations around the globe as well as serving in a leadership role on our Executive Board. We deeply appreciate both your generosity and commitment to enhancing our organizational efficiency,” said Cousin.